Ontario’s New Attractions Aim to Redefine Southern California Tourism
A Sports‑Centric Revitalization
Ontario, a city east of Los Angeles, is rolling out a series of new attractions that officials say could transform the area into a regional destination. Kelsie Woodward, director of the Greater Ontario Convention and Visitors Bureau, explained that the city is actively promoting itself as more than a bedroom community.
At the center of the effort is a $100 million minor‑league baseball stadium called ONT Field, home to the Ontario Tower Buzzers, a Single‑A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers. City planner Jonathan Campos noted that the venue blends sport with family entertainment, featuring a wiffle‑ball park, a grassy outfield berm and a modern playground.
Complementing the stadium is the Ontario Sports Empire, a 190‑acre complex that hosts youth tournaments in baseball, soccer and flag football, drawing teams from across Southern California. Councilmember Paul Leon highlighted the economic ripple effects for local businesses.
Meanwhile, Toyota Arena, a multi‑purpose venue, schedules concerts and spectacles such as performances by Los Tucanes de Tijuana and the high‑octane Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live, adding a cultural calendar that rivals larger metropolitan venues.
Shopping enthusiasts can explore Ontario Mills, California’s largest outlet mall, which boasts more than 200 retailers under one roof. Just a short drive away, Logan’s Candies, a candy shop dating back to 1933, offers over 200 handcrafted varieties that have recently gone viral on TikTok for its behind‑the‑scenes making process.
For those seeking a different kind of thrill, Topgolf in Ontario provides an indoor driving range set against a backdrop of the region’s mountain ranges, merging technology with recreation.